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MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) trains will
replace the electric loco hauled passenger trains in short distance
routes. These have the 'normal' width (10' 8" vs 12' of the
suburban EMU) and steps to cater to low platforms. Here is the
Tirupati - Chennai EMU at Renigunta. |
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The delightful Chennai MG EMU. These are cutely
proportioned and have a poise which a BG vehicle just cannot
manage. Here is a Chennai Beach-bound EMU stopping at the Chennai
Park station. |
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Here is the rear end of another train — the
flashing tail lamp. The leading cab has an air compressor
underfloor which makes a characteristic staccato sound. |
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Some units have these additional spot lamps. In
spite of the tiny size, these trains run on 25 KVAC supply. |
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Trailing cab of another unit with spot lamps
— note the tail lamp glowing. |
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More passing MG units — I really love the profile of the
nose — the rise of the headlamp nacelle and the thrust of the
buffer with the chopper coupler leading the way. Note the weights
used to tension the catenary wire. |
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Some units have 'advertising' liveries. Sadly these are the
last few years of these cuties, soon to be replaced by the dullest
of the dull trains — the BG EMU. Note the two types of
driving coaches — one is powered with a panto, and the other
a non-powered trailer. |
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Golden Rock WDP2 # 15519 backs the rake of the
Chennai - Tuticorin Pearl City express from the newly-built Samy
Nagar carriage and wagon facility outside Chennai Egmore
station. |
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This is a long 24-coach rake and I doubt if a WDS4
shunter can handle such loads easily. The first coach is the
recently introduced 'High Capacity Parcel Van' with 24 tonnes
capability. |
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WDP2 is a 3100 HP full-width diesel-electric loco
meant for high-speed express duties. Note the flexicoil bogie and
the twin cabs. These bogies are found on no other diesel locos on
the IR. |
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WDP2 is the only diesel in the IR with eight horn
trumpets! The TK wagon on the right is used to supply diesel for
the busy DMU rake plying the Chennai Beach - Kanchipuram sector.
Note the long pipe by the platform that serves as a dip stick for
the TK. |
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The 800 HP diesel hydraulic shunter of the IR, the
WDS 4, in this case this is the Tondiarpet loco # 19700 which was
used to haul and move the HHPDEMU (High Horse Power Diesel Electric
Multiple Unit) rake on the left. The HHP is stabled at Royapuram
and is here only to pick up 500 liters of diesel per power car
(there are three in this rake). |
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Another view of the hard-working locomotive. |
